Published at 8:56 AM PDT on Nov 4, 2011

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JUNE TO NOVEMBER: It's true that many of the grandest of the pride celebrations are centered around early summer, regardless of region. But Palm Springs holds its community celebration in November, when the desert days have cooled off a bit and temps aren't topping a hundred degrees. That's nice, but it is equally nice that those who want to come together and celebrate acceptance and friendship and fun -- all important points of any pride party -- can have an autumn gathering to anticipate after the summer soirees have wrapped. The 2011 Greater Palm Springs Pride is set for Saturday, Nov. 5 and Sunday, Nov. 6.

PARADE START TIME: While there are many satellite events to GPSP, the centerpiece is the Sunday parade. It's on Palm Canyon Drive -- if you know your P.S., you know that that location is pretty much a given -- and it starts at 10 a.m. There's also a 5k, a drag pageant, and the weekend-long festival, too; you'll want to confirm dates and times. And our hats off to this year's grand marshals, among them 16-year-old anti-bullying activist Caleb Laieski. When you see Mr. Laieski in the parade, be sure to give him an extra big cheer.

NOVEMBER RAIN: While temperatures have cooled down nicely in the desert, we should note there may be a smattering of showers on Sunday. Keep an eye on the weather and pack a rainbow-nice umbrella for some quality parade-viewing.